The mandatory budget cuts in Washington, DC known as the Sequester is taking its toll on air shows including the Thunder in the Valley Air Show as the armed forces have pulled out.

“All branches of the armed forces have informed us they cannot participate,” Phaedra Childers, Event Coordinator, said is a press release today. “The Air Force canceled as soon as budget cuts were a possibility; the Army had to pull its vehicles and weapons display last week; and the Navy called Friday to cancel the F-18 TAC Demo Team. We’ll have nothing from the military currently being used in training or on the front lines. We’re very disappointed.” The show is March 16 and 17 at the Columbus Airport.

Despite the loss of military acts, more than three hours of mostly new-to-the-Valley performers remain. “Most of this year’s acts are new to our show or have not been here in years,” Childers said. “We’ll have historic aircraft and displays from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam; and the Army’s incredible Silver Wings Parachute Team will still open the show both days In all, there will still be nearly 200 minutes of performances.” Acts and attractions still scheduled include: Wing walker Jane Wicker, Viper Air Shows and the Greg Koontz "Alabama Boys" Comedy Act.

There will be flying demonstrations by historic military aircraft, airplane and helicopter rides, a children’s carnival, a 20-foot replica of the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, great food, and much more.